The US government shutdown will continue after the Senate on Monday failed for a fifth time to pass spending measures that would reopen federal agencies.
Competing proposals by Democrats and Republicans both fell short of the 60 votes required to move forward, extending the deadlock that has left thousands of federal employees furloughed or working without pay for five days.
Former president Donald Trump reiterated threats of mass layoffs if another vote failed earlier in the day, but later hinted at possible compromise, saying he was open to talks with Democrats to resolve the impasse.
The Democratic-led bill to extend government funding failed 45–50, while the Republican proposal secured 52 votes but still fell short of the required threshold.
Shortly after the vote, Trump took to his Truth Social platform to blame Democrats for the continued shutdown, writing:
“I am happy to work with the Democrats on their Failed Healthcare Policies, or anything else, but first they must allow our Government to re-open.”
Democrats have refused to support the Republican bill, insisting any agreement must protect healthcare subsidies for low-income Americans and reverse cuts to Medicaid. Republicans, meanwhile, want a “clean” funding bill with no added provisions, accusing Democrats of holding the government “hostage” to push unrelated policy goals.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt warned that permanent layoffs could begin soon if the shutdown continues, adding:
“We don’t want to see people laid off. But unfortunately, if this shutdown continues, layoffs are going to be an unfortunate consequence.”
Public opinion polling by CBS News shows most Americans view both parties unfavourably for their handling of the crisis, though Trump and congressional Republicans are blamed slightly more.
Also read: US government shutdown begins as partisan division rules Washington
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